Cars with the most brakes problems

Ranking of the cars we have analysed by the severity and frequency of their documented brakes faults. Each fault links to its page: symptoms, cost, how to check it and sources.

Of the 317 cars we have analysed, 172 have documented brakes faults. The one with the most accumulated risk is the Volvo S60 III, because of “recall: braking system disabled in b mode after a long descent (plug-in hybrid s60)”; it is followed by the Kia Sportage IV and the Ford Ranger. For 145 we have found no documented brakes faults.

Reviewed on 9 October 2026How we work

Rank 1
Volvo S60 III
Saloon · 3 brakes faults
5.5 out of 10brakes score
- Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalBrakesRecall: braking system disabled in B mode after a long descent (plug-in hybrid S60)On plug-in hybrid S60s, the braking system can be disabled when using B mode after a long descent, with a risk of collision. Volvo corrected it with a campaign (R10329, Safety Gate 28/2025) covering 76,365 cars of several models built between May 2019 and June 2025.
- High severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalBrakesRecall: insufficient welding in the brake system hydraulic unitOn a small batch of S60s built between December 2020 and January 2021, Volvo warned of an insufficient or missing welded connection in the brake system hydraulic unit and corrected it by replacing the unit. The reference is R10120.
- High severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalBrakesRecall: software error in the brake control moduleIn January 2023 Volvo recalled S60s built between 26 September 2022 and 11 January 2023 for a possible software error in the brake control module, which is corrected by updating the program. The reference is R10217.
Rank 2
Kia Sportage IV
Compact SUV · 2 brakes faults
5.7 out of 10brakes score
- Critical severityVery frequentFrequency: Very frequentBrakesShort circuit in the ABS/ESP unit with fire riskYes: Germany's KBA and the US NHTSA have recorded several campaigns (2021 and 2025) over a short circuit in the ABS/ESP unit that can cause a fire in the engine bay, even with the car parked and switched off.
- Critical severityVery frequentFrequency: Very frequentBrakesBlocked tandem pump filter and loss of brake assistanceYes: a KBA campaign from October 2023 states that the tandem pump filter on Sportages built between 2018 and 2020 has a design defect that can make the brake servo fail and stiffen the brake pedal.
Rank 3
Ford Ranger
Mid-size SUV · 2 brakes faults
5.7 out of 10brakes score
- Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalBrakesFatigue cracking and deformation of the front brake hosesTwo recall campaigns (19S12 and 19U12) affect the front brake hoses of the Ranger: on vehicles built between June 2016 and August 2018 they can crack through fatigue, and on the 2019 Ranger Raptor they can become deformed and rub against the wheel rim. In both cases braking performance is reduced.
- Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalBrakesLoss of brake servo assistance, with longer pedal travel and a longer stopping distanceCampaign 225S77 covers Rangers built between 27 June 2024 and 24 June 2025: brake servo assistance may be lost, so the pedal travels further and the car needs a longer distance to stop. Safety Gate classifies it as a serious accident risk.
Rank 4
Ford Transit VI-VII
Van and combi · 2 brakes faults
5.7 out of 10brakes score
- Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalBrakesFatigue of the rear axle brake pipe bracket boltIn 2013 it was notified to Safety Gate (alert A12/0224/13, submitted by the United Kingdom) that the bolt securing the brake pipe bracket to the rear axle of the Transit built between May 2010 and August 2012 may fail and break the rear brake pipe through fatigue, which would compromise braking.
- Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalBrakesBrake pedal pin 'R' clip out of specificationIn March 2013 Safety Gate recorded campaign 2C498: the 'R' clip that retains the brake pedal pin on the Transit (and Transit Custom) built between September 2012 and February 2013 does not meet the material specification and may come off, which would separate the pedal from the brake servo rod.
Rank 5
Hyundai i40
Saloon · 2 brakes faults
5.7 out of 10brakes score
- Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalBrakesShort circuit in the ABS hydraulic module (HECU) with a burning smellYes: the British DVSA records a recall (references 41D091 / 41DC27, September 2024) for 17,893 UK i40s built between November 2010 and October 2014: the ABS hydraulic unit can suffer a short circuit and a lower-rated fuse is fitted.
- Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalBrakesLoss of brake servo assistance due to the tandem vacuum pumpYes: since April 2023 the DVSA has recorded a recall (reference 21D036) for 187 British i40s built between December 2018 and May 2019, for possible loss of brake assistance. The pump's drive belt and mesh filter are inspected and the pump is replaced if defective.
Rank 6
Hyundai ix35
Compact SUV · 2 brakes faults
5.7 out of 10brakes score
- Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalBrakesFire risk from the ABS control moduleYes. A European safety alert (Safety Gate, reference 41D091) covers ix35s built between 26 May 2009 and 31 October 2014: the ABS module can fail internally and cause a short circuit with a risk of fire in the engine bay, even with the car parked.
- Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalBrakesPossible defect in the brake servo vacuum pumpYes. In 2012 Hyundai recalled more than 2,200 ix35 units for a possible defect in the brake servo vacuum pump, the part that multiplies the force the driver applies to the brake pedal.
Rank 7
Hyundai Santa Fe III
Mid-size SUV · 2 brakes faults
5.7 out of 10brakes score
- Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalBrakesShort circuit in the ABS/ESP module of Santa Fes built up to October 2014Yes: Hyundai has recalled Santa Fes built up to 31 October 2014 for two reasons related to the brake module: impurities in the brake fluid that damage some O-rings and let fluid reach the ABS circuit board, and a short circuit in the ESP unit. In both cases there is a risk of fire.
- Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalBrakesInternal short circuit in the ABS module of Santa Fes built between 2015 and 2018Yes: a Safety Gate alert from November 2022 covers Santa Fes (DM) built between 5 March 2015 and 12 February 2018 because the ABS module can suffer an internal short circuit, which increases the risk of fire in the engine bay.
Rank 8
Mercedes-Benz Vito W447
Van and combi · 2 brakes faults
5.7 out of 10brakes score
- Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalBrakesBadly fitted brake pipes with brake fluid leak and fire risk (November 2018 to May 2019)Yes: between 28 November 2018 and 6 May 2019 some Vito and V-Class vehicles left the factory with badly fitted brake pipes; fluid could leak, stopping distances could lengthen and, if it fell onto hot parts, the risk of fire increased. It is corrected through a recall.
- Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalBrakesUnstable front axle brake caliper bracket with reduced braking performance (February and March 2021)Yes: between 6 February and 10 March 2021, Vito and V-Class vehicles (2,248 units worldwide) were built with an unstable front brake caliper bracket, which can reduce service brake performance. Safety Gate records it as an accident risk.
Rank 9
Toyota ProAce City
Van and combi · 2 brakes faults
5.7 out of 10brakes score
- Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalBrakesDefective front brake discs that may crack (Proace City Verso)A batch of ProAce City Verso built between 8 January and 3 February 2024 (136 units worldwide) may have defective front brake discs that crack and may even break; Toyota opened campaign CI24-037.
- Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalBrakesBrake servo: loss of hydraulic brake compensation because of a software faultCampaign CI24-022 covers ProAce City and City Verso from 2023-2024: the CAN network may send an invalid brake servo vacuum value and deactivate the hydraulic compensation, with less braking capacity; it is corrected with a software update.
Rank 10
Volvo S80 II
Saloon · 4 brakes faults
5.7 out of 10brakes score
- Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalBrakesBrake servo vacuum pipe chafed by the wiper mechanism on the Volvo S80In 2012 Volvo recalled (R/2012/104 in the UK) a batch of V60, V70, XC70 and S80 cars because the wiper mechanism could chafe the brake servo vacuum pipe. If it wears through, assistance drops gradually and, in the worst case, can disappear suddenly and without warning.
- High severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalBrakesVolvo S80 brake vacuum pump non-return valve: reduced assistance on some cold startsIn 2009 Volvo recalled cars of several models, including the V70 and S80 (R/2009/052 in the UK), because the assistance the vacuum pump gives the brakes could decrease on certain cold starts: the brakes still work, but you have to press the pedal harder. The remedy is to replace the non-return valve.
- Medium severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalBrakesVolvo S80 parking brake module: the software could release the brake when moving the gear leverIn 2015 Volvo recalled (R/2015/040 in the UK) cars of several models, including the V70, XC70 and S80, with a manual gearbox and start/stop system: the parking brake module software could release the brake when the lever was moved with the engine running. The remedy is a software update.
- Low severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalBrakesMarked brake wear (pads and discs) on the Volvo S80 after 100,000 kmDEKRA's 2015 reliability report, reported by Autofácil, points to marked brake wear as a weak point of the S80/V70 in inspections of cars with 100,000 km. It is the only source we have found for the S80 and no campaign is on record.
Rank 11
Volvo V70 III
Saloon · 4 brakes faults
5.7 out of 10brakes score
- Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalBrakesBrake servo vacuum pipe chafed by the wiper mechanism on the Volvo V70In 2012 Volvo recalled (R/2012/104 in the UK) a batch of V60, V70, XC70 and S80 cars because the wiper mechanism could chafe the brake servo vacuum pipe. If it wears through, assistance drops gradually and, in the worst case, can disappear suddenly and without warning.
- High severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalBrakesVolvo V70 brake vacuum pump non-return valve: reduced assistance on some cold startsIn 2009 Volvo recalled cars of several models, including the V70 and S80 (R/2009/052 in the UK), because the assistance the vacuum pump gives the brakes could decrease on certain cold starts: the brakes still work, but you have to press the pedal harder. The remedy is to replace the non-return valve.
- Medium severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalBrakesVolvo V70 parking brake module: the software could release the brake when moving the gear leverIn 2015 Volvo recalled (R/2015/040 in the UK) cars of several models, including the V70, XC70 and S80, with a manual gearbox and start/stop system: the parking brake module software could release the brake when the lever was moved with the engine running. The remedy is a software update.
- Low severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalBrakesHigh brake pad wear on the Volvo V70Two sources agree that brake wear is a weak point of the V70 and S80: gebrauchtwagenberater.de cites high pad wear on the V70, and DEKRA's 2015 report, reported by Autofácil, marked brake wear after 100,000 km. No campaign is on record.
Rank 12
Fiat Doblò II
Van and combi · 2 brakes faults
6.1 out of 10brakes score
- Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalBrakesBrake servo vacuum hose connector that can break (2012 Doblò)Fiat recalled Doblòs (and other models from the brand, such as the Qubo) built between June and September 2012 because a connector on the brake servo hose could fail and cause the vacuum assistance to be lost, forcing you to press the pedal harder. It is corrected by fitting a new hose.
- High severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalBrakesBrake servo vacuum pump that may not work properly (late 2019 Doblò)In January 2020 Fiat recalled (UK) Doblòs built between 24 October and 5 December 2019 because the brake vacuum pump might not work properly. The remedy is to replace the pump; the register consulted does not detail the specific risk or the cause.
Rank 13
Hyundai Veloster
Saloon · 2 brakes faults
6.1 out of 10brakes score
- Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalBrakesABS module short circuit caused by brake fluid leak (campaign 41D091)Yes: Hyundai has recalled Velosters built between November 2010 and October 2014 because impurities in the brake fluid can damage some O-rings and let fluid reach the ABS circuit board, with a risk of short circuit and fire. According to Autofácil, the check is free of charge.
- High severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalBrakesHandbrake that does not fully release because of water in the rear caliperYes: a 2013 Safety Gate alert records that, on Velosters built up to February 2012, water getting into the rear brake caliper can stop the handbrake from fully releasing, with a risk of an accident. The remedy is inspection and repair at an official Hyundai service centre.
Rank 14
Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 907
Van and combi · 2 brakes faults
6.1 out of 10brakes score
- Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalBrakesFront flexible brake hoses damaged by rubbing against the wheel archAlert A12/00718/20 warns that the front flexible brake hoses can be damaged by rubbing against the inner wheel arch, with a risk of brake fluid leaking, reduced braking effectiveness and a longer stopping distance. It covers Sprinters built between November 2017 and March 2020.
- High severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalBrakesHandbrake cable bracket fixingAccording to Autofácil, a Safety Gate alert (Mercedes campaign 4293009) warns that the fixing of the handbrake cable bracket can come loose and leave the parking brake inoperative. It affects cars built in Germany between 25 August and 13 September 2023.
Rank 15
Volkswagen Passat B6
Saloon · 2 brakes faults
6.1 out of 10brakes score
- Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalBrakesLoss of brake assistance from a damaged brake servo vacuum hose (200 hp engines)According to gebrauchtwagenberater.de, on the 200 hp engines of the Passat B6 built between 2005 and 2007 a damaged vacuum hose can impair brake assistance, making the brake pedal harder.
- Medium severityCommonFrequency: CommonBrakesThe electric parking brake does not always apply or release properlyYes: gebrauchtwagenberater.de describes the Passat B6's electric parking brake as unreliable, and fiches-auto.fr collects several owner reports in which the system refuses to apply or release properly.
Rank 16
Volvo S40 I
Compact · 2 brakes faults
6.1 out of 10brakes score
- Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalBrakesBrake servo vacuum pump fault on the 1999-2000 Volvo S40 1.9 dieselThe brake servo vacuum pump on S40 and V40 1.9 diesels built in 1999 and 2000 may fail and leave the brake pedal heavy to press. The British campaign R/2002/053 fits a modified pump; it affected 1,551 vehicles in the UK.
- High severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalBrakesFront brake calipers on the 2000 Volvo S40 made of the wrong material that may crack and leak fluidSome front brake calipers on S40 and V40 models from 2000 were made of the wrong material and may crack and leak fluid under heavy stress. The British campaign R/1999/100 replaces all front calipers in the suspect range; it affected 1,178 vehicles in the UK.
Rank 17
Volvo V60 I
Saloon · 2 brakes faults
6.1 out of 10brakes score
- Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalBrakesBrake servo vacuum hose rubbing against the wiper armA European alert from October 2012 (A12/1474/12) warned that, in some V60 cars from model years 2012 and 2013, the wiper arm mechanism could rub against the brake servo vacuum hose. Braking assistance would be lost gradually or, in the worst case, all at once and without warning.
- High severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalBrakesThe parking brake can release by itself on V60 manual gearbox cars from 2011 to 2015A European alert from March 2015 (A12/0303/15) warned that, under certain conditions, the parking brake can release unintentionally on Volvo V60 (and S60, S80, V70, XC60 and XC70) cars with a manual gearbox from model years 2011 to 2015. A German guide mentions a similar software fault in units up to 2014.
Rank 18
Volvo XC40
Compact SUV · 2 brakes faults
6.1 out of 10brakes score
- Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalBrakesLoss of electronic brake assistance due to a software faultYes: in January 2023 Volvo recalled more than 100,000 cars built in 2023, including the XC40, because a software fault in the brake module could, in rare cases, cause the electronic brake assistance functions to be lost while driving. The brake pedal continued to work manually and the update is free.Repair: €0
- High severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalBrakesThe brake pedal can move out of position due to faulty assemblyIn 2018 XC40 units, faulty assembly can cause the brake pedal to move out of position and affect the operation of the braking system. Germany's Kraftfahrt-Bundesamt (KBA) registered a recall to correct it free of charge at the official network.Repair: €0
Rank 19
Citroën C4 Cactus
Compact · 2 brakes faults
6.4 out of 10brakes score
- Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalBrakesBrake servo vacuum pump failure due to insufficient lubrication (loss of braking assistance)Citroën recalled C4 Cactus cars built between February 2017 and November 2019 because the brake servo vacuum pump can be insufficiently lubricated and fail, which reduces braking assistance and stiffens the pedal.
- Critical severityRareFrequency: RareBrakesBrake hose failure from rubbing against the shock absorber (built July-September 2019)Citroën recalled C4 Cactus cars built between July and September 2019 because the brake hose can rub against the shock absorber and fail, causing a brake fluid leak.
Rank 20
Kia Rio III
Small family car · 2 brakes faults
6.4 out of 10brakes score
- Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalBrakesShort circuit in the ABS/ESC brake unit (HECU): fire riskYes: in December 2024 Kia recalled 59,379 Rio UB built between 15 December 2010 and 31 March 2017 because the hydraulic brake unit (HECU, which manages the ABS and ESC) can suffer an internal leak and a short circuit that, in extreme cases, overheats the fuse box with a risk of fire under the bonnet, according to the British DVSA.
- Medium severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalBrakesPremature rear pad wear and seizing calipersFiches-auto.fr describes prematurely worn rear pads and the occasional seized rear brake caliper on the Kia Rio III, with a rubbing noise when braking; gebrauchtwagenberater.de places the discs and the foot brake among the usual reasons for failure in the German roadworthiness inspection.
Rank 21
Kia Sportage III
Compact SUV · 2 brakes faults
6.4 out of 10brakes score
- Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalBrakesShort circuit in the ABS/ESC brake unit (HECU): fire riskYes: Kia has recalled the Sportage SL at least twice (February 2023 and December 2024) because the hydraulic brake unit (HECU, which manages the ABS and ESC) can suffer an internal leak and an electrical short circuit that, in extreme cases, overheats the fuse box with a risk of fire in the engine bay, according to the UK's DVSA.
- Medium severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalBrakesThe brake light switch can fail due to carbonised contactsYes: a 2013 recall (40,769 Kia vehicles in the UK, including the Sportage) corrects a brake light switch whose contacts become carbonised and can intermittently stop working, which can also affect the ESC, cruise control, gear selection on automatics and the engine warning light, according to the UK's DVSA.
Rank 22
Opel Corsa D
Small family car · 2 brakes faults
6.4 out of 10brakes score
- Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalBrakesHandbrake failure due to a manufacturing defectYes: Opel recalled Corsa D cars from 2010 and 2011 in two separate notices because the handbrake mechanism could lose its ability to hold the car, with a risk of it moving while parked.
- Critical severityRareFrequency: RareBrakesManufacturing defect in the front brake caliper bracketIn 2015 Opel recalled Corsa D cars from the 2014 production year because a deviation in the moulding of the front brake caliper bracket could lead to it breaking, with a risk of a road accident.
Rank 23
Volvo XC70 III
Mid-size SUV · 2 brakes faults
6.4 out of 10brakes score
- Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalBrakesBrake servo vacuum pipe chafed by the wiper mechanism on the Volvo XC70In 2012 Volvo recalled (R/2012/104 in the United Kingdom) a batch of V60, V70, XC70 and S80 cars because the wiper mechanism could rub against the brake servo vacuum pipe. If it wears through, braking assistance falls gradually and, in the worst case, can disappear suddenly and without warning.
- Medium severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalBrakesVolvo XC70 parking brake module: the software could release the brake when moving the gear leverIn 2015 Volvo recalled (R/2015/040 in the United Kingdom) cars of several models, including the V70, XC70 and S80, with manual gearbox and start/stop system: the parking brake module software could release the brake when the lever was moved with the engine running. The remedy is a software update.
Rank 24
Suzuki Vitara
Small SUV · 2 brakes faults
6.6 out of 10brakes score
- Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalBrakesTemporary brake servo lock-up caused by the vacuum pump valveYes: Suzuki recalled Vitaras built between 2015 and 2022 because the brake servo's vacuum pump valve can swell and momentarily block the vacuum, forcing you to press the brake far harder. The repair is free at official dealers.
- High severityRareFrequency: RareBrakesRear left brake pipe breakage due to manufacturing damageYes: on 2023 units, the rear left brake pipe may have been damaged when tightened at the factory, which over time can rust and develop a hole, causing a brake fluid leak. Suzuki recalled 4,878 units in total (Vitara and SX4 S-Cross) from February 2024.
Rank 25
Opel Zafira A
MPV · 1 brakes fault
6.8 out of 10brakes score
- High severityCommonFrequency: CommonBrakesSeized rear brakes and brake pipe corrosionThe Zafira A's rear brake can seize because of the handbrake mechanism, and the German Wikipedia points to corrosion of the brake pipes in the engine area as a frequent problem on used units.
Rank 26
Mitsubishi Outlander II
Mid-size SUV · 2 brakes faults
6.8 out of 10brakes score
- High severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalBrakesBrake light switch failure caused by silicone greaseThe Outlander II's brake light switch can stop working and the brake lights fail to come on when you brake: Safety Gate (A12/1613/14) records it for 2007-2009, and the DVSA attributes it to silicone grease insulating the contacts. On automatics, the selector lever could fail to come out of P.
- High severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalBrakesBrake servo: the switch boot can crack and the pedal does not releaseOn certain 2010-2012 Outlander IIs the brake servo switch boot can crack and break, so that the brake pedal does not release and the car cannot move. Mitsubishi corrected it with a recall that replaces the brake servo on affected cars.
Rank 27
Suzuki SX4
Small SUV · 2 brakes faults
6.8 out of 10brakes score
- High severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalBrakesIncorrectly fitted parking brake cables that can come loose or prevent the brake from releasingThe first SX4 vehicles (built from late 2005 to 2007) were recalled in 2007 because the parking brake cables could have been incorrectly fitted: according to the sources, the end of the cable could come loose and leave you with no handbrake, or the brake might not release.
- High severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalBrakesPoor service brake and handbrake effectiveness in TÜV inspectionsIn the TÜV reports, SX4 vehicles from the most recent production years of the series fail on the operation of the service brake and the handbrake, and AutoScout24 cites a braking effectiveness that declines over time.
Rank 28
Hyundai Tucson III
Compact SUV · 1 brakes fault
7.1 out of 10brakes score
- Critical severityVery frequentFrequency: Very frequentBrakesFire risk from the ABS control module (HECU)Yes. Hyundai recalled the Tucson TL built between February 2017 and August 2020 (campaign 11DC03) because the ABS module can fail internally and cause a short circuit with a risk of fire in the engine bay, even with the car parked. In the US the same campaign (20V543000) covered model years 2016-2021.
Rank 29
Opel Corsa F
Small family car · 1 brakes fault
7.1 out of 10brakes score
- Critical severityVery frequentFrequency: Very frequentBrakesBrake fluid leak and loss of ABS/ESP from the EBS valve block (2024 production)The manufacturer recalled Opel Corsa F cars built between 24 May and 27 August 2024 because of an EBS valve block with a casting defect that can cause an internal brake fluid leak and the loss of stability control, ABS and electronic brake distribution.
Rank 30
Peugeot 2008 II
Small SUV · 1 brakes fault
7.1 out of 10brakes score
- Critical severityVery frequentFrequency: Very frequentBrakesReduced braking effectiveness from an HBC electronic fault (2023 production)On Peugeot 2008 II models built between 2 October and 15 November 2023, an error in the vacuum circuit can make the electronic unit send an invalid value to the hydraulic brake compensation (HBC), which reduces braking effectiveness.
Rank 31
Peugeot 208 II
Small family car · 1 brakes fault
7.1 out of 10brakes score
- Critical severityVery frequentFrequency: Very frequentBrakesBrake fluid leak and loss of ABS/ESP due to the EBS valve block (2024 production)The manufacturer recalled Peugeot 208 IIs built between 27 May and 6 June 2024 over an EBS valve block with a casting defect that can cause an internal brake fluid leak and loss of ABS and ESP. The Opel Corsa has an equivalent campaign with different dates.
Rank 32
Mercedes-Benz Clase E W211
Saloon · 1 brakes fault
7.1 out of 10brakes score
- Critical severityCommonFrequency: CommonBrakesSBC (Sensotronic Brake Control) electrohydraulic braking system failuresThe E-Class W211 introduced the SBC electrohydraulic braking system, which could fail because of a faulty control of its high-pressure pump, especially in extreme situations; Mercedes-Benz recalled it twice (2004 and 2005) and ended up removing it completely in the 2006-2007 facelift after customer complaints.Appears at around 120,000 km
Rank 33
Opel Astra K
Compact · 1 brakes fault
7.1 out of 10brakes score
- Critical severityCommonFrequency: CommonBrakesBrake master cylinder contaminated by clutch debrisYes: Opel recalled 2016-2018 Astra K cars because the seal on the clutch slave cylinder can release particles that contaminate the brake master cylinder, lengthen the pedal travel and reduce braking power.
Rank 34
Alfa Romeo MiTo
Small family car · 1 brakes fault
7.1 out of 10brakes score
- Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalBrakesBrake servo pipe connector fault in MiTos built in 2012A 2012 campaign affected MiTos built between 1 June and 30 September 2012: a connector on the brake servo pipe could fail and leave the brakes without vacuum assistance. The record consulted is from the United Kingdom (268 cars); we do not know how many units it affected in Spain.
Rank 35
Audi A4 B5
Saloon · 1 brakes fault
7.1 out of 10brakes score
- Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalBrakesBrake pedal retaining bolt that can work loose (1998-1999 campaign)The British DVSA recorded in January 1999 a recall of 9,192 Audi A4s built between July 1994 and August 1995: the bolt holding the brake pedal could work loose and leave the pedal on the floor without returning, with loss of braking control. The bolt was checked and tightened.
Rank 36
Audi Q2
Small SUV · 1 brakes fault
7.1 out of 10brakes score
- Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalBrakesThe electric parking brake could apply inappropriatelyIn October 2018, Audi recalled 3,650 Q2 cars built between January 2017 and June 2018 because the electronic parking brake could apply inappropriately while the car was moving.Repair: €0
Rank 37
Audi Q5 II
Mid-size SUV · 1 brakes fault
7.1 out of 10brakes score
- Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalBrakesBrake master cylinder leak and rear pistons that do not work properly (2018-2019 campaigns)Between 2018 and 2019, Audi recalled production batches of the Q5 II for a possible brake fluid leak in the master cylinder and, in a separate campaign, for rear brake pistons that might not work correctly.Repair: €0
Rank 38
Citroën C3 Aircross I
Small SUV · 1 brakes fault
7.1 out of 10brakes score
- Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalBrakesBreakage of the brake servo vacuum pump due to insufficient lubrication (loss of brake assistance)In a wide range of C3 Aircross I cars built between February 2017 and November 2019, Citroën found that the brake servo vacuum pump may be insufficiently lubricated and break, which reduces brake assistance and stiffens the pedal.
Rank 39
Citroën C4 III
Compact · 1 brakes fault
7.1 out of 10brakes score
- Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalBrakesInternal brake fluid leak from the EBS valve block (built May-June 2024)In C4 III cars built between 29 May and 5 June 2024, the aluminium of the EBS valve block may not have fused completely around the valves, which causes internal brake fluid leaks and may lead to loss of ABS and stability control.
Rank 40
Citroën C4 X
Compact · 1 brakes fault
7.1 out of 10brakes score
- Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalBrakesInternal brake fluid leak in the EBS valve block (built May and June 2024)Yes: on C4 X cars built between 29 May and 3 June 2024 the aluminium of the EBS valve block may not have been cast properly and can cause an internal brake fluid leak that disables the stability control and ABS. It is a recall published on Safety Gate in June 2025.
Rank 41
Citroën C5 Aircross
Compact SUV · 1 brakes fault
7.1 out of 10brakes score
- Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalBrakesBrake servo (Mastervac) diaphragm tearing from overpressure (built September-October 2019)Citroën recalled C5 Aircross cars built in September and October 2019 because overpressure can tear the diaphragm of the brake servo (Mastervac), which reduces braking assistance.
Rank 42
Citroën Jumpy III
Van and combi · 1 brakes fault
7.1 out of 10brakes score
- Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalBrakesRear brake discs poorly seated on the hub (early 2025 batch)A batch of Jumpy and Spacetourer built in late January and early February 2025 is covered by campaign GN5 because the rear brake discs do not sit firmly enough on the hub: the disc can crack, the wheel bolts can loosen and, in the worst case, the wheel can come off. The repair is free.
Rank 43
Fiat Doblò III
Van and combi · 1 brakes fault
7.1 out of 10brakes score
- Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalBrakesBrake vacuum circuit fault: hydraulic brake compensation (HBC) may be disabledFiat recalled Doblòs built between 14 September 2023 and 20 January 2024: given a specific error in the brake vacuum circuit, the control unit may send an invalid value to the hydraulic brake compensation (HBC) system and reduce braking effectiveness.
Rank 44
Fiat Qubo
Van and combi · 1 brakes fault
7.1 out of 10brakes score
- Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalBrakesBrake servo vacuum pipe connector that may break (2012 Qubo)Fiat recalled Qubos built between June and September 2012 because a brake servo pipe connector could fail and cause a loss of vacuum assistance, meaning more effort on the pedal. The campaign (DVSA R/2012/139) is resolved by fitting a new pipe.
Rank 45
Ford Transit Custom
Van and combi · 1 brakes fault
7.1 out of 10brakes score
- Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalBrakesBrake pedal pin clip out of specification: the pedal can come away from the brake servoIn 2013 a warning was issued that the first Transit Custom vehicles (built between late September 2012 and early February 2013) had an R-clip on the brake pedal pin that did not meet the material specification and could come off, leaving the pedal disconnected from the brake servo and with no braking.
Rank 46
Kia Carens III
MPV · 1 brakes fault
7.1 out of 10brakes score
- Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalBrakesInternal brake fluid leak in the ABS/ESC hydraulic unit with fire riskA February 2025 Safety Gate alert includes Carens built between September 2009 and December 2012. An internal brake fluid leak can cause a short circuit in the ABS/ESC electrical circuit and overheat the fuse box, with a risk of an engine fire.
Rank 47
Kia Optima III
Saloon · 1 brakes fault
7.1 out of 10brakes score
- Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalBrakesABS/ESC hydraulic unit (HECU) short circuit with fire riskYes: a Safety Gate alert (campaign 241A04QF) covers Optimas built between 11 August 2011 and 11 July 2013: an internal brake fluid leak in the ABS/ESC can cause a short circuit and overheat the fuse box, with a risk of fire. The repair is free.
Rank 48
Kia Optima IV
Saloon · 1 brakes fault
7.1 out of 10brakes score
- Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalBrakesBrake servo tandem vacuum pump fault due to a blocked mesh filterYes: the British DVSA recorded in 2023 a recall (references 220S15 and 221048) that includes Optimas built between October 2018 and September 2020: the tandem pump's mesh filter may become blocked, the vacuum pump may fail and braking distances may lengthen through lack of assistance.
Rank 49
Mazda CX-5 I
Compact SUV · 1 brakes fault
7.1 out of 10brakes score
- Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalBrakesLoss of braking force due to brake servo vacuum pump failureYes: some first-generation CX-5s built in 2016 were recalled because the vacuum pump that boosts the brake servo can fail, which reduces the available braking force and means you have to press the pedal much harder.
Rank 50
Mercedes-Benz Citan W415
Van and combi · 1 brakes fault
7.1 out of 10brakes score
- Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalBrakesUnderbody brake pipe not screwed in properly on cars built in August and September 2016On some Citans built between 25 August and 13 September 2016, the underbody brake pipe may not have been screwed in properly, with a risk, in the worst case, of losing brake fluid. It is recorded on a Citan known-problems page; this is the only source we have found.
Rank 51Mercedes-Benz Clase B W246 · 1 brakes fault7.1 out of 10
Rank 52Mercedes-Benz Clase R W251 · 1 brakes fault7.1 out of 10
Rank 53Mercedes-Benz CLS C219 · 1 brakes fault7.1 out of 10
Rank 54Mercedes-Benz GL / GLS X166 · 1 brakes fault7.1 out of 10
Rank 55Mercedes-Benz GL X164 · 1 brakes fault7.1 out of 10
Rank 56Mitsubishi ASX I · 1 brakes fault7.1 out of 10
Rank 57Mitsubishi Outlander III · 1 brakes fault7.1 out of 10
Rank 58Peugeot 307 · 1 brakes fault7.1 out of 10
Rank 59Peugeot 508 II · 1 brakes fault7.1 out of 10
Rank 60Peugeot Expert III · 1 brakes fault7.1 out of 10
Rank 61Renault Scénic II · 1 brakes fault7.1 out of 10
Rank 62Seat Ateca · 1 brakes fault7.1 out of 10
Rank 63Seat Tarraco · 1 brakes fault7.1 out of 10
Rank 64Suzuki S-Cross I · 1 brakes fault7.1 out of 10
Rank 65Suzuki Swift V · 1 brakes fault7.1 out of 10
Rank 66Toyota Camry · 1 brakes fault7.1 out of 10
Rank 67Toyota ProAce II · 1 brakes fault7.1 out of 10
Rank 68Volkswagen Jetta V · 1 brakes fault7.1 out of 10
Rank 69Volvo XC60 II · 1 brakes fault7.1 out of 10
Rank 70Volvo XC90 II · 1 brakes fault7.1 out of 10
Rank 71Kia Picanto III · 2 brakes faults7.1 out of 10
Rank 72Renault Scénic III · 2 brakes faults7.3 out of 10
Rank 73BMW Serie 3 F30 · 1 brakes fault7.9 out of 10
Rank 74Citroën C-Elysée · 1 brakes fault7.9 out of 10
Rank 75Ford Mondeo III · 1 brakes fault7.9 out of 10
Rank 76Honda Civic VIII · 1 brakes fault7.9 out of 10
Rank 77Hyundai i30 II · 1 brakes fault7.9 out of 10
Rank 78Hyundai Ioniq 5 · 1 brakes fault7.9 out of 10
Rank 79Hyundai Trajet · 1 brakes fault7.9 out of 10
Rank 80Hyundai Tucson I · 1 brakes fault7.9 out of 10
Rank 81Kia Soul II · 1 brakes fault7.9 out of 10
Rank 82Kia Sportage II · 1 brakes fault7.9 out of 10
Rank 83Lexus IS II · 1 brakes fault7.9 out of 10
Rank 84Lexus UX · 1 brakes fault7.9 out of 10
Rank 85Mitsubishi Lancer · 1 brakes fault7.9 out of 10
Rank 86Opel Combo E · 1 brakes fault7.9 out of 10
Rank 87Opel Vivaro B · 1 brakes fault7.9 out of 10
Rank 88Peugeot 301 · 1 brakes fault7.9 out of 10
Rank 89Renault Kangoo II · 1 brakes fault7.9 out of 10
Rank 90Renault Master III · 1 brakes fault7.9 out of 10
Rank 91Renault Mégane III · 1 brakes fault7.9 out of 10
Rank 92Renault Trafic III · 1 brakes fault7.9 out of 10
Rank 93Seat Arona · 1 brakes fault7.9 out of 10
Rank 94Škoda Karoq · 1 brakes fault7.9 out of 10
Rank 95Smart Forfour · 1 brakes fault7.9 out of 10
Rank 96Smart Fortwo · 1 brakes fault7.9 out of 10
Rank 97Toyota Auris I · 1 brakes fault7.9 out of 10
Rank 98Volkswagen Caddy III · 1 brakes fault7.9 out of 10
Rank 99Volkswagen Caddy V · 1 brakes fault7.9 out of 10
Rank 100Volkswagen Passat B8 · 1 brakes fault7.9 out of 10
Rank 101Volkswagen T-Cross · 1 brakes fault7.9 out of 10
Rank 102Volvo S40 II · 1 brakes fault7.9 out of 10
Rank 103Volvo V40 I · 1 brakes fault7.9 out of 10
Rank 104Volvo V50 · 1 brakes fault7.9 out of 10
Rank 105Jeep Compass MP · 2 brakes faults7.9 out of 10
Rank 106Peugeot Partner III · 2 brakes faults8.0 out of 10
Rank 107Audi A1 II · 1 brakes fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 108Audi A3 III · 1 brakes fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 109Audi A3 IV · 1 brakes fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 110Citroën C3 I · 1 brakes fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 111Citroën C3 II · 1 brakes fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 112Citroën C4 II · 1 brakes fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 113Cupra Formentor · 1 brakes fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 114Dacia Sandero II · 1 brakes fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 115Fiat 500X · 1 brakes fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 116Ford B-Max · 1 brakes fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 117Ford C-Max I · 1 brakes fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 118Ford Fiesta V · 1 brakes fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 119Ford Focus I · 1 brakes fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 120Ford Puma · 1 brakes fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 121Hyundai i20 I · 1 brakes fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 122Hyundai i20 III · 1 brakes fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 123Jeep Renegade · 1 brakes fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 124Kia XCeed · 1 brakes fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 125Mazda 5 I · 1 brakes fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 126Mazda CX-30 · 1 brakes fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 127Mazda CX-5 II · 1 brakes fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 128Mazda CX-7 · 1 brakes fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 129MINI Cooper F56 · 1 brakes fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 130MINI Countryman F60 · 1 brakes fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 131Opel Astra H · 1 brakes fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 132Opel Meriva A · 1 brakes fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 133Peugeot 3008 I · 1 brakes fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 134Peugeot 4007 · 1 brakes fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 135Renault Clio II · 1 brakes fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 136Renault Laguna II · 1 brakes fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 137Seat Ibiza III · 1 brakes fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 138Škoda Octavia I · 1 brakes fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 139Toyota Corolla IX · 1 brakes fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 140Toyota Corolla XII · 1 brakes fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 141Toyota Prius IV · 1 brakes fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 142Toyota RAV4 III · 1 brakes fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 143Toyota Yaris III · 1 brakes fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 144Volkswagen Passat B7 · 1 brakes fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 145Volkswagen Polo IV · 1 brakes fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 146Volvo XC90 I · 1 brakes fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 147Renault Mégane IV · 2 brakes faults8.6 out of 10
Rank 148BMW Serie 1 E87 · 1 brakes fault8.9 out of 10
Rank 149BMW X3 G01 · 1 brakes fault8.9 out of 10
Rank 150Citroën Berlingo II · 1 brakes fault8.9 out of 10
Rank 151Citroën Berlingo III · 1 brakes fault8.9 out of 10
Rank 152Citroën C-Crosser · 1 brakes fault8.9 out of 10
Rank 153Fiat 500e · 1 brakes fault8.9 out of 10
Rank 154Ford Mondeo IV · 1 brakes fault8.9 out of 10
Rank 155Nissan Leaf I · 1 brakes fault8.9 out of 10
Rank 156Nissan Leaf II · 1 brakes fault8.9 out of 10
Rank 157Peugeot Rifter · 1 brakes fault8.9 out of 10
Rank 158Renault Captur I · 1 brakes fault8.9 out of 10
Rank 159Renault Clio III · 1 brakes fault8.9 out of 10
Rank 160Renault Clio V · 1 brakes fault8.9 out of 10
Rank 161Renault Scénic IV · 1 brakes fault8.9 out of 10
Rank 162Renault Twingo III · 1 brakes fault8.9 out of 10
Rank 163Renault Zoe · 1 brakes fault8.9 out of 10
Rank 164Suzuki S-Cross II · 1 brakes fault8.9 out of 10
Rank 165Volkswagen Tiguan II · 1 brakes fault8.9 out of 10
Rank 166Audi Q3 I · 1 brakes fault9.3 out of 10
Rank 167Ford S-Max I · 1 brakes fault9.3 out of 10
Rank 168Ford S-Max II · 1 brakes fault9.3 out of 10
Rank 169Opel Vectra C · 1 brakes fault9.3 out of 10
Rank 170Volvo V70 II · 1 brakes fault9.3 out of 10
Rank 171Volvo XC70 II · 1 brakes fault9.3 out of 10
Rank 172MG ZS I · 1 brakes fault9.6 out of 10

No documented brakes faults

We have found no reliable sources reporting brakes faults on these cars. That does not mean they never fail: maintenance and use count as much as design.